In the Boise Ridge Mountains just above Idaho’s capital city, wildflowers bloom in the summer and snow-covered pines tower over skiers as they make fresh powder tracks in winter. But something else exciting is happening at Bogus Basin: as the sun rises over our foothills, its rays are beginning to power parts of the mountain and its operations.
This is the story of our partnership with Bogus Basin, where clean energy, outdoor adventure, and community collaboration intersect. This is a project that’s been in the making since 2023, and it demonstrates why solar energy is a major win, both for the Treasure Valley and the mountain communities surrounding us.
A Vision for a Greener Mountain
Bogus Basin is more than a ski area; it’s a nonprofit and community hub where Idahoans gather year-round to hike, bike, do yoga, enjoy winter sports, listen to live music, and connect with nature. And the leadership at Bogus Basin has a bold vision to preserve this mountain playground for generations to come by eagerly embracing sustainability. (Some of Bogus’s efforts include switching building lighting to LED bulbs, purchasing electric snowmobiles, expanding its recycling program, adding a composting program, and recycling aluminum and steel from lift replacement projects.)
So when Bogus approached us with their plan to continue using solar energy to power various aspects of its operations on the mountain, we knew we were about to embark on something special. For one thing, Boise sees more than 200 days of sunshine each year, making this an ideal place for generating solar energy. But this was also an opportunity to collaborate with an organization that shares our commitment to Idaho’s environment and outdoor lifestyle.
For EGT Solar Energy Consultant Quinn Skillin, this project was especially meaningful, since he enjoys skiing and biking at Bogus in his free time. “You spend the most time up there out of anyone in the office,” EGT’s founder joked with assigning this project, making it a natural fit. That personal connection made it easy to talk shop with the Bogus team and understand their vision.
The Project: Clean Energy for Bogus Basin’s Rental Shop
From the beginning, we recognized that this project would require more attention than a typical commercial installation. So, working closely with the team at Bogus Basin, we designed and installed a state-of-the-art solar array tailored to meet the client’s unique needs. From project start to finish, our team went above and beyond, donating significant resources and labor to make this solar array a reality.
While Bogus Basin’s total energy use is enormous, this initial solar installation is focused on the rental shop, which is an essential hub for skiers and riders. We installed 71 high-efficiency solar panels, strategically placed to maximize sunlight throughout Idaho’s variable seasons. There were three potential sites for the array, but we selected the rental shop’s south-facing, pitched roof. This location not only captures the most sunlight but also allows snow to slide off easily, ensuring consistent panel performance even in the middle of winter.
Solar in the Snow (Busting the Myths)
There’s a common misconception that solar panels don’t work well in snowy climates, but the reality is quite the opposite. Modern solar panels are installed at an angle, and the warmth generated during operation, combined with the pitch of the roof, means snow typically slides off quickly. Even though panels may be covered about 50 percent of the time during winter, they still perform well whenever the sun comes out. In fact, cold temperatures can actually improve solar efficiency, and the reflective quality of snow can boost energy production on clear days.
Projections indicate that the project will produce at least 32 MWh (megawatt-hours) of energy each year, enough to offset about 70 percent of the building’s annual energy use. That amounts to offsetting about 10 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year, or about the amount of carbon dioxide emitted from nearly 800 trips to the ski area.
During the summer, when energy usage at the rental shop drops, the system is poised to create a substantial amount of solar credits by generating excess power. Those credits can be transferred to other meters on the property, helping Bogus Basin offset energy costs throughout the year.
Idaho Power rewards customers for exporting excess energy, paying up to 17 cents per kilowatt-hour in the afternoons (compared to the 8 to 10 cents per kilowatt-hour typically charged for usage). This makes solar especially effective for both commercial and residential customers in mountain communities, where power usage is low and excess energy is generated in the summer, when Idaho Power needs it the most.
A Community Effort and Labor of Love
This solar project was both a labor of love and a community effort, made possible by the generosity and collaboration of several partners.
Clēnera donated 210 solar panels (139 of which will be available for future use), a 40-foot Conex shipping container valued at over $55,000, and Sungrow inverters (that convert solar energy into usable power). EGT Solar contributed $10,000 in professional labor for the installation, and essential equipment and hardware came from PLATT Electric, Codale, and CED. A $10,000 grant from the Wells Fargo Foundation further supported Bogus Basin’s sustainability goals.
“We’re honored to support Bogus Basin’s bold commitment to clean energy and sustainability,” says Rob Black, EGT Solar’s CEO. “When organizations come together with shared values and a vision for the future, real progress happens — and our team is proud to have contributed time, resources, and expertise to be a part of that change.”
These combined efforts showcase the power of partnerships in building a cleaner, more energy-resilient future for our mountain community. “Our partnership with local companies EGT Solar and Clēnera is a powerful example of what can happen when Idaho-based organizations unite around climate action,” says Nate Collins, Bogus Basin Sustainability and Stewardship Coordinator. “These collaborations help us achieve measurable emissions reductions while building a more resilient future for the mountain.”
A Win for the Environment and Idahoans
By going solar, Bogus Basin is not only lowering its environmental impact but also setting an example for other ski areas and businesses across the region. “This project is a significant step in our ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship,” says Bogus Basin’s General Manager, Brad Wilson.
However, even more than solar panels and savings, this project is about people. Bogus Basin is a nonprofit, and every dollar saved on energy costs goes right back into programs for the community, from affordable lift tickets to outdoor education for local kids. It’s a win-win: more green energy means more opportunities for everyone to enjoy the mountain.
Looking Ahead
This installation is just the beginning, too. Bogus Basin now has additional panels for potential future projects, opening the door for even greater clean energy impact down the road. “We look forward to building on this momentum and supporting Bogus Basin’s future solar initiatives,” says Black.
The project is also inspiring conversations about sustainability throughout Idaho’s recreation industry. As the Idaho Business Review noted, “Bogus Basin’s investment in solar sets a new standard for environmental leadership among ski resorts in the Northwest.”
Ready to Join the Solar Movement?
Since 2009, our team has been committed to helping Idaho communities become energy independent. To that end, we’ve partnered with nonprofits, businesses, and homeowners to keep Idaho wild, beautiful, and powered by clean, renewable energy.
If you’re inspired by Bogus Basin’s story and want to learn how solar can benefit your property, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line or request a free estimate.
